NOA condemns assault on corps member,

urges accountability, prosecution

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has expressed deep dismay over what it describes as the unfortunate and embarrassing incident involving a corps member and individuals identified as vigilantes in Anambra State.

The Agency maintained that it is regrettable and unacceptable that persons charged with the responsibility of upholding the dignity and security of Nigerians would act in a manner so unbecoming and grossly irresponsible.

The Director General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu in a statement by the Director Communication and Media of the NOA Bala Musa condemned the act and any such actions that violate the rights, dignity, and personal security of Nigerian citizens.

The Agency noted that as clearly enshrined in the National Values Charter, both leaders and citizens have reciprocal responsibilities: leaders must guarantee accountability and uphold the public trust, while citizens must demonstrate a duty of care and mutual respect in their conduct toward one another.

It added that it is imperative that those who superintend over others live up to the tenets of the Nigerian Promise, which emphasizes service, accountability, and leadership by example. The abuse of power, particularly against youth corps members who serve in the national interest, undermines the very foundation of our collective values.

The DG in the statement commended what it describes as the swift and responsible response of the Anambra State Government and calls for the diligent prosecution of all individuals involved in this shameful act. This is the least measure of justice due to the corps member whose rights and dignity were so brazenly violated.

Isa-Onilu further stated that everyone must recognize that such images and incidents severely tarnish our nation’s reputation adding that every citizen has a responsibility to uphold and project the positive image of Nigeria.

He maintained that the national reputational asset is sacrosanct and must not be undermined by the actions of a few and that the incident must serve as a wake-up call.